Snow forms when water vapor in the atmosphere freezes into ice crystals.

Snowflakes form in a variety of different shapes.

Snow is a form of precipitation, other forms of precipitation are rain, hail and sleet.

Light and fluffy snow is often called ‘powder’.

Heavy snowfalls are often called ‘snowstorms’.

Snowstorms with high winds are often called ‘blizzards’.

Snow reflects a high level of ultraviolet radiation and can cause snow blindness (photokeratitis). Sunglasses, goggles and other eye protection help absorb the ultraviolet rays.

A number of winter sports rely on snow, including skiing and snowboarding.

Recreational activities such as snowball fights, tobogganing and making snowmen are also popular in the snow.

Skis, sleds and snowmobiles are useful transport options through snow.

Snow can lower visibility, making driving conditions dangerous.

The highest snowfall ever recorded in a one year period was 31.1 meters (1224 inches) in Mount Rainier, Washington State, United States, between February 19, 1971 and February 18, 1972.

Make a snowflake with this fun science experiment for kids.